The 2018 Athlone Christmas lights were turned on in spectacular style on Sunday evening in John Count McCormack Square.
Speaking following the festive occasion, Cllr. Frankie Keena, Town Mayor, spoke effusively, noting that it was a particularly apt experience for both Grace and Scott Lowe to turn on the Christmas lights.
"It was particularly fitting that the lights were turned on by both Grace Lowe and her first cousin Scott Lowe. Grace is known as 'Amazing Grace' as she fought cancer twice with the help of her cousin Scott who donated his bone marrow to help save her life in November 2017. They are double cousins, best friends and have an incredible bond. This month they will be celebrating their first year since the transplant and it was just fantastic to have both of them present in good health to turn on our lights," Cllr. Keena enthused.
A fabulous range of activities were arranged by a very active voluntary committee ranging from singing, dancing and musical entertainment.
"I would like to sincerely thank my fellow committee members including Cllr. Aengus O’Rourke and indeed all the participants for putting on an excellent colourful and entertaining display. It was full of life, youth, vibrancy and fun. The large attendance stayed for the full two hours and the feedback was that they were enthralled by all aspects of the evening. Pete Casey did an excellent job as MC introducing the acts and engaging with the crowd continuously. The event was kindly financed by Westmeath County Council," the Town Mayor added.
As the event reached its conclusion, Santa Claus made a special guest appearance by Garda car which brought great excitement to all the children who were present. An apt way to round off the start of the festive season in Athlone!
